Ups and Downs

In one day you can be the best parent AND the worst parent. Today, I was such a parent.

In the morning, I was the best mom:
We took the kids to visit the puppy we will be taking home in 6 weeks.

In the afternoon, I was the worst mom:
I was driving the monkeys to visit grandma and grandpa and talking on the phone at the same time. My big monkey got something in her eye. After I get off the phone she thanks me (her voice dripping with sarcasm) for, "Finally getting off the phone so you can take care of your child".

Oh , well! All was forgiven when they came home to find I had bought them shorts and bathing suits (if you have Nordstrom Rack near you they are having a GREAT sale).

Over Scheduling

I was talking to a friend today and we were discussing a mutual acquaintance, who constantly over schedules herself. She has drinks with one friend, dinner with another and then goes dancing with a third. I commented that she needs to stop scheduling so much all the time.

Then I realized - I am no different. I always have to have plans, and if I don't I get antsy. I thrive on knowing what's next. I check my watch constantly, even if I am having a GREAT time. My monkeys are inheriting this trait from me. They are like the energizer bunny on speed!

Today the big monkey had camp until 3pm. She had ballet at 4pm, flamenco at 5pm and hip hop at 6pm. The little monkey had preschool until 4:45pm. Broadway Jazz at 5pm. Both had swimming at 7:15pm. They love being over-scheduled. To them, it's just right. Granted, today was an anomaly and there normally won't be so many activities in one day, but SHEESH!

The minute they ask me to slow it down I will.

I was talking to a co-worker and he told me that most people don't do as much for their kids as I do for mine. I'm actually not sure if he meant it as a compliment or put down.

Now for my question:

Am I a typical mother? Do most kids have 2-3 activities a week? Do I do more for my kids than other parents? Do I do less?